Research Assistant in software development in R for species identification

The University of Gothenburg tackles society’s challenges with diverse knowledge. 53 500 students and 6 500 employees make the university a large and inspiring place to work and study. Strong research and attractive study programmes attract scientists and students from around the world. With new knowledge and new perspectives, the University contributes to a better future.

At the Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences (BioEnv) we have teaching and research activities that stretch from the alpine ecosystem, through forests, cultivated land and streams, all the way into the marine environment. In these environments we study different levels of biological organisation from genes, individuals and populations to communities and ecosystems. We work within ecology, evolution, physiology, systematics, and combinations of these fields in order to understand the impact of natural and anthropogenic changes of the environment.

The department is placed at three different localities: in Gothenburg Botanical garden, at Medicinarberget in Gothenburg and Kristineberg Marine Research Station. The current position is placed at Gothenburg Botanical garden.

Project description

Identification of plankton species and abundance is most commonly done through microscopy, but also automatic picture recognition can be used. We use a program with an open code, but today that is somewhat old with respect to the capacity of today’s computers, which is why we need to adjust the program. The project is connected to FRAM - Centre for Future Chemical Risk Assessment and Management Strategies, and the Formas-project CopeMix where we work with effects of hazardous substances on plankton communities.

Job assignments

The task involves adjustment of the automatic identifikacation program, Zooimage, so that larger pictues can be handled and the process done smoother. The work also involves reprogramming and development of the script to be used directly in R, also for novices, and to write a short reference guide for users. The work can be done from home.

The employment


This is a fixed-term employment for 1,5 months, 100%, starting early summer upon agreement.

Eligibility

Eligible to be employed as an assistant researcher is a person with a university degree on a basic or advanced level with emphasis on statistics/mathematics and programming.

Assessments


We are looking for a motivated person for employment as research assistant within R-programming. Good knowledge of R, and capability to communicate the use of R also for those less experienced is a strong merit.

Excellent communication skills, written and spoken, in English are necessary since we work in an international environment.

The application could be written in English or Swedish and must include:


• A short cover letter with the applicant’s justification for the application, i.e., that describes how the applicant meets the selection criteria
• A list of qualifications (CV)
• Copy of certificate of exam

The top ranked candidates will be selected for an interview, which might be held in English and could also be performed by phone/Zoom.

How to apply

In order to apply for a position at the University of Gothenburg, you have to register an account in our online recruitment system: https://web103.reachmee.com/ext/I005/1035/main?site=7&validator=9b89bead79bb7258ad55c8d75228e5b7〈=UK&rmpage=job&rmjob=20476
It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure that the application is complete in accordance with the instructions in the job advertisement, and that it is submitted before the deadline.

The application must be received no later than: 2021-05-20

 


In connection to this recruitment, we have already decided which recruitment channels we should use. We therefore decline further contact with vendors, recruitment and staffing companies.